In a concerted effort to safeguard Barbados’ vulnerable eastern coastline, volunteers from the island’s four Kiwanis Clubs joined forces on Saturday to plant trees along the erosion-prone Ermie Bourne Highway. The initiative, spearheaded by Teddy Leon, president of the Kiwanis Club of Bridgetown, saw members from the Barbados North, South, Benevolence, and In Action clubs come together to plant 50 sea grape and coconut trees near Barclays Park, an area particularly susceptible to soil erosion. The project was guided by dendrologist Nigel Jones from the National Botanical Gardens, ensuring the selection of appropriate species for the coastal environment. The volunteers worked diligently for nearly two hours starting at 7 am, demonstrating their commitment to environmental stewardship. Mike Archer, president of the Kiwanis Club of Barbados North, emphasized the dual importance of community service and environmental protection. “By planting these trees today, we are not only fulfilling our mission of service but also taking proactive steps to preserve our coastline for future generations,” he remarked. Archer also expressed gratitude to the Kiwanis Club of Bridgetown for providing the plants and revealed plans for a second phase of the project, which aims to engage youth groups in the ongoing effort to combat coastal erosion. This next phase is tentatively scheduled for late this year or early next year, further solidifying the clubs’ dedication to environmental conservation.